In Exercises 16–17, factor completely.24x³y + 16x²y − 30xy
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Step 1: Identify the greatest common factor (GCF) of all the terms in the expression. The terms are 24x³y, 16x²y, and -30xy. The GCF is 2xy.
Step 2: Factor out the GCF from each term in the expression. This means dividing each term by 2xy.
Step 3: Write the expression as a product of the GCF and the remaining terms. After factoring out 2xy, the expression becomes 2xy(12x² + 8x - 15).
Step 4: Focus on factoring the quadratic expression inside the parentheses, 12x² + 8x - 15. Look for two numbers that multiply to (12 * -15) = -180 and add to 8.
Step 5: Once the quadratic is factored, write the complete factored form of the original expression, which includes the GCF and the factored quadratic.
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Factoring Polynomials
Factoring polynomials involves rewriting a polynomial as a product of its factors. This process is essential for simplifying expressions and solving equations. Common methods include factoring out the greatest common factor (GCF), using special products like the difference of squares, and applying techniques such as grouping.
The greatest common factor (GCF) is the largest factor that divides all terms in a polynomial. Identifying the GCF is the first step in factoring, as it allows for simplification of the polynomial. For the expression 24x³y + 16x²y − 30xy, the GCF is 2xy, which can be factored out to simplify the expression.
Combining like terms is the process of simplifying expressions by adding or subtracting terms that have the same variable raised to the same power. This is crucial in polynomial expressions, as it helps in identifying the structure of the polynomial and facilitates easier factoring. In the given expression, recognizing and combining like terms can lead to a clearer path for factoring.